China said Friday it is reviewing a U.S. offer to hold talks over President Donald Trump’s steep 145% tariffs on Chinese imports — but warned that it won’t tolerate any pressure tactics from Washington.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry confirmed that American officials have approached Beijing “on many occasions” through back channels, seeking to restart negotiations.
While signalling a willingness to talk, China also issued a stern reminder: it won’t be forced into any deal under threats.
“Attempting to use talks as a pretext to engage in coercion and extortion would not work,” the ministry said in a statement, urging the U.S. to cancel what it calls “erroneous” unilateral tariffs.
The potential talks could mark a turning point in the ongoing trade war, which has rattled global markets and disrupted supply chains since Trump imposed massive tariffs on Chinese goods. China quickly retaliated with its own 125% duties on American imports.
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Despite both sides trading barbs, signs of flexibility are emerging. Reuters reported that China is quietly creating a list of U.S. products — including pharmaceuticals, microchips, and jet engines — that could be exempt from retaliatory tariffs, hinting at a more pragmatic approach.
Still, tensions remain high. Trump’s move to end duty-free exemptions on small shipments from China and Hong Kong adds more fuel to the fire. Meanwhile, Beijing has accused Washington of bullying and using tariffs as a political weapon.
Officials in the U.S., including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, say there’s hope for progress. “First, we need to de-escalate,” Bessent told Fox Business, adding that a broader trade deal could follow.
Trump echoed that sentiment, saying there’s a “very good chance” of reaching an agreement. But Chinese leaders, facing a slowing economy and deflation at home, are treading carefully.
For now, China says its door is open — but it wants sincerity, not threats.
